Probability Distributions for Wood Walls in Bending

Strength and stiffness distributions of wood‐stud walls were simulated on a computer using experimentally determined properties of framing, sheathing, and joints. Distributions were generated for conventional wall constructions framed with Douglas‐fir and southern pine studs of Stud grade, and sheathed with nominal 3/4 in. (19.0 mm) bevel siding of 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) plywood siding on one side and 1/2 in. (13 mm) gypsunv wallboard on the other side. This construction represents common types of walls with proven infield performance. Each simulated wall was analyzed by a computer model. The ultimate lateral load and average and maximum stud deflections were fitted to Weibull three parameter probability functions. The results, based on stud properties unadjusted for moisture content or load duration, indicate that all simulated wall types can sustain loads exceeding those expected in a 100 year wind. Actually, all wall types except those with 24 in. (610 mm) stud spacing would be safe under a 200 year wind in ...